The new arrangements, which do not apply to taxi driver licenses, will be put in place in place in the coming days, Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said.

All driving licenses with an expiry date between 1 February and 31 August 2020 will be treated as valid for a further seven months. For some drivers this will remove the requirement to have a medical assessment conducted. This extension will be automatically applied and new licences will not be issued during this period.

Ms Mallon said: “I understand that for many people at this time in particular, having a valid licence allowing them to drive for essential journeys or to ensure they can continue to work, is vital.

“This new EU Regulation provides a practical solution to a very real problem and ensures that those in this situation can remain on the road without having to worry about getting a renewal application processed, which for some requires a medical assessment. It will also help any customers who could not access or were finding it difficult to renew their licence online.

“Road safety is my key priority and I would therefore remind all drivers that they have a responsibility to notify the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) if they have a new or worsening medical condition or disability that may affect their ability to drive.”

She added: “I very much regret that the extension provisions cannot be applied to taxi driver licences, as they are not covered by the EU Driving Licence Directive.

“However, for those taxi drivers who do not have a medical condition to declare, I can announce that my Department will renew your five year taxi driver’s licence without a medical report. You may be asked to submit a medical report at some future date.

“For those with a medical condition, I will do everything within my power to ensure that you are prioritised for medical appointments and licence renewal. I would ask those taxi drivers in this category, to please contact the DVA email address directly so we can provide you with assistance as quickly as possible.”